Cover glass to housing interface system

ABSTRACT

A display cover to housing interface system includes a display screen fronted by a display cover having front and obverse faces and a distal edge between the faces around a circumference thereof (i.e., edge thickness), and also an outer housing that provides support for the display cover. A portion of the display cover distal edge or thickness is fully exposed to outside, such that the display cover is exposed and substantially visible when viewed directly from the front and at least one side while installed. The display cover can be glass, while the housing is metal. A protective layer located between the housing and display cover protects the display cover from the housing. Various support components hold the display cover in place, and can include magnets and/or a stabilizer assembly affixed along a bottom edge of the display cover and adapted to couple to a bottom chin of the housing.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of and claims priority to U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 14/023,294, filed Sep. 10, 2013, which is acontinuation of and claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/107,808, filed May 13, 2011, which is a continuation of and claimspriority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/570,972, filed Sep. 30,2009, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety andfor all purposes. This application is also related to co-pending andcommonly owned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/571,122, also filedSep. 30, 2009, entitled “COMPUTER HOUSING,” which is also incorporatedby reference herein in its entirety and for all purposes.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates generally to display devices, and moreparticularly to methods and systems for interfacing a display cover to ametal housing on a computer or other device having a display screen.

BACKGROUND

Sophisticated computers, terminals, televisions, and other devices thatutilize display screens are developing at a rapid rate. In suchcompetitive markets with many brands and providers, there is anever-present demand for improved and/or distinguished appearances,functionalities, and aesthetics in the newest computers and othersimilar devices. One area that continually receives great attention forimproved and distinguished appearances in such devices involves visualoutputs, which can include display screens, lights and other variablevisual indicators. As consumer products grow more complex with greatercapabilities, and with so many providers and competing products tochoose from, however, it becomes increasingly difficult to provideproducts having display screens that are distinguished and eye-catching,yet uncluttered and aesthetically pleasing.

For example, significant strides have been made in recent years withrespect to display screens for laptop computers. Newer technologies haveresulted in laptop computer makers being able to mass produce displayscreens that are clearer, thinner and larger in area, while producingless heat than in earlier models. In addition, the materials used tohouse and support laptop display screens, typically in one half of aclamshell type arrangement, have become stronger and arranged better inrecent years. This enables the ability to use less plastic or othermaterial to support and “frame” the display screen, which can thenresult in more area dedicated to the display screen itself and a moreaesthetic display appearance.

Another more particular example of a distinguished and aestheticallypleasing large display screen presentation can be found with respect tothe iMac®. personal computer made by Apple, Inc. of Cupertino, Calif. Inthis display presentation, a large display screen is secured within anouter housing having a back, bottom, relatively thin sides and top, anda large opening in the front that comprises over 75% of the frontalarea. A display cover glass is positioned into and held in place in aset back recess in the frontal opening area of the outer housingspecifically designed to secure the cover glass, such that the displayscreen is visible therethrough. An inked mask around the display coverglass edge, rounded housing corners and a metallic finish augment theoverall appearance. The end result is an aesthetically pleasing lookdominated by a relatively large display screen that is visible to theuser through a display cover glass and positioned within an outerhousing that does not require substantially more height or width thanthe display screen itself.

While many designs and techniques used to present a display screen havegenerally worked well in the past, there is always a desire to providefurther designs and techniques for presenting display screens that areaesthetically pleasing and distinguishable over the presentations ofother providers and brands. In addition, such aesthetically pleasing yetdistinguishable approaches can lead to a need for new structures andinterfaces to enable the new presented displays to be integrated withtheir respective devices in a non-obtrusive manner.

SUMMARY

It is an advantage of the present invention to provide distinctivedisplay arrangements that are fully functional as well as aestheticallypleasing. This can be accomplished at least in part through the use ofan original display cover to outer housing interface, along with varioussupport structures that enable such a unique arrangement. The use of anouter housing having a bottom chin and side to side stabilizercomponents permits the display cover to rest flush against the bottomchin, while upper support components hold the upper portion of thedisplay cover in place such that the side edges of the display cover areexposed and visible to a user viewing the system directly from the side.

In various embodiments, a display cover to housing interface system caninclude a translucent or transparent display cover having a distal edgeportion or thickness and adapted to be placed proximate to a displayscreen such that the display screen is visible therethrough, as well asa housing adapted to house the display screen and provide stabilizedsupport for the display cover while the display cover is placedproximate to the display screen, wherein at least a portion of thedisplay cover distal edge portion or thickness is fully exposed to theoutside of the system while such stabilized support is provided. Thedisplay cover can include a front face, an obverse face and the distaledge portion (i.e., thickness) between the front and obverse faces andaround at least a portion of a circumference thereof. Also, thestabilized support can comprise a force interaction between one or moredistal edges of the housing and the obverse face of the display cover.Although the display cover can be glass and the housing can be metal,other materials can be used. The display cover can also be readilyremovable from the housing, such that the obverse side of the displaycover can be easily cleaned by a user, and/or the internal cavity of thehousing can be readily accessed for servicing. Enabling suchaccessibility to the internal cavity of the housing through the openingcreated by a vacated display cover can permit the remainder of thehousing to be a single integrated unit.

In some embodiments, a protective layer can be situated between one ormore distal edges of the housing and the obverse face of the displaycover, with said protective layer being adapted to prevent or reducedamage resulting from said the housing contacting the display cover,particularly where the housing is made of metal. In some embodiments, anink layer can be situated between the protective layer and the obverseface of the display cover, with said ink layer being arranged to form anopaque frame around a viewing portion of the display cover. Theprotective layer can also be arranged to protect this ink layer frombeing scratched or otherwise damaged by the housing. Such an ink layercan be deposited or otherwise place on the obverse side of the displaycover itself.

In some embodiments, one or more support components can be used to holdthe display cover in place with respect to the housing, and such supportcomponents can restrict relative movement of the display cover in adirection substantially perpendicular to its front face. In someembodiments, such support components can include the use of magnetscoupled to the housing and/or display screen structure. In such anarrangement, one or more pieces of metal can be bonded to the obverseface of the display cover, wherein the magnets are arranged to hold thedisplay cover in place by exerting an attraction force on the one ormore pieces of metal bonded to the display cover.

In various detailed embodiments, a stabilizer assembly can be affixedalong an outer edge of the display cover, such as along a bottom edge,with such a stabilizer assembly being adapted to couple to at least aportion of the housing such that relative side-to-side movement betweenthe display cover and the housing is restricted. The housing can have abottom chin portion that is specially adapted to mate or otherwiseinterface with the stabilizer assembly affixed to the display cover.This bottom chin portion can be adapted to reside directly beneath andto support the display cover, wherein the front of said bottom chinportion extends further away from the display screen than any otherportion of the housing. In some arrangements, the front of this bottomchin portion and the front face of the display cover can be coplanar. Inaddition, the display cover can rest flush against the bottom chin suchthat no gap between the display cover and housing is created.

In various further embodiments, a computing device can include amicroprocessor, a display screen coupled to the processor, a displaycover positioned proximate to said display screen such that at least aportion of the display screen, and an outer housing containing thedisplay screen and providing stabilized support for the display cover.The display cover and outer housing can be substantially similar to thedisplay cover and housing set forth above, and it is specificallycontemplated that such items be arranged so that at least a portion ofthe display cover distal edge or thickness is fully exposed to theoutside of the computing device while such stabilized support isprovided.

Further embodiments can include just the display apparatus, including adisplay screen, a display cover as set forth above, and an outer housingas set forth above. Again, the front portion of the housing and thefront face of the display cover can be coplanar. Also, the face of thedistal edge portion of the display cover and the face of said at leastone side of the outer housing can also be coplanar. Still, further, thefull thickness of the display cover can be exposed and visible from theside when the entire system is viewed directly from the side. Such aside coplanar relationship and such a side visibility feature can existfor any other embodiments provided herein.

In various detailed embodiments, which may be included in any of theforegoing embodiments, the display cover has a square or rectangularshape. In such arrangements, the display cover distal edge portion canbe exposed on at least two different sides of the square or rectangle.In further arrangements, the display cover distal edge portion can beexposed on at least three entire sides of the square or rectangle. Instill other arrangements, the entire circumference of the distal edgeportion (i.e., all four sides) is exposed to outside of the computingdevice.

In still further embodiments, various methods of placing a display coveronto a computing device having a display screen are provided. Suchmethods can include positioning a bottom edge of a display cover onto abottom chin portion of an outer housing having a display screen housedtherein, engaging a stabilizer assembly affixed to and along the bottomedge of the display cover with one or more mating components coupled tosaid bottom chin portion, pivoting the display cover toward the displayscreen about an axis of rotation that is substantially along the bottomedge of the display cover, and releasing the display cover such that anupper portion thereof is supported by one or more secondary supportslocated on the computing device. As noted above, such a step ofreleasing can include permitting a plurality of magnets (i.e., secondarysupports) located on the computing device to attract one or more metalitems located on the display cover.

In various detailed embodiments, which may similarly be included in anyof the foregoing embodiments, the display cover can be advantageouslypositioned such that the bottom chin portion provides a primary supporttherefor. The stabilizer assembly engagement can then restrict anyrelative side-to-side movement between the display cover and the outerhousing. Further, the final position of the display cover can result ina substantial amount of the side thickness of the display cover beingexposed to the outside of the computing device. The step of releasingcan include permitting a plurality of magnets located on the computingdevice to attract one or more metal items located on the display cover.

Other apparatuses, methods, features and advantages of the inventionwill be or will become apparent to one with skill in the art uponexamination of the following figures and detailed description. It isintended that all such additional systems, methods, features andadvantages be included within this description, be within the scope ofthe invention, and be protected by the accompanying claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The included drawings are for illustrative purposes and serve only toprovide examples of possible structures and arrangements for thedisclosed inventive apparatus and method for providing a display screencover to housing interface for a personal computer or other devicehaving a display screen. These drawings in no way limit any changes inform and detail that may be made to the invention by one skilled in theart without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

FIG. 1A illustrates in front elevation view an exemplary computingdevice having an oversized display screen presentation.

FIG. 1B illustrates in side elevation view the exemplary computingdevice of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 2A illustrates in front elevation view an exemplary computingdevice having an oversized display screen presentation utilizing adisplay screen to housing interface according to one embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 2B illustrates in side elevation view the exemplary computingdevice of FIG. 2A according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 illustrates in front elevation view the exemplary computingdevice of FIG. 2A with its display cover removed according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4A illustrates in partially cut-away obverse elevation view theobverse side of the display cover removed from the exemplary computingdevice of FIG. 2A according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4B illustrates in side elevation view the display cover of FIG. 4Aaccording to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 illustrates in partial top cross-sectional view the fullyassembled exemplary computing device of FIG. 2A according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 illustrates in partial side cross-sectional view the fullyassembled exemplary computing device of FIG. 2A according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7A illustrates in partial side cross-sectional view one section ofthe bottom chin region of the fully assembled exemplary computing deviceof FIG. 2A according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7B illustrates in partial side cross-sectional view an alternativesection of the bottom chin region of the fully assembled exemplarycomputing device than that shown in FIG. 7A according to one embodimentof the present invention.

FIG. 8 illustrates in front perspective view an exemplary computingdevice with a display cover partially installed according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9A illustrates in front elevation view an alternative exemplarycomputing device having an oversized display screen presentationutilizing a display screen to housing interface according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9B illustrates in side elevation view the alternative exemplarycomputing device of FIG. 9A according to one embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 10 illustrates in top perspective view another exemplary displayscreen to housing interface according to one embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 11 presents a flowchart of an exemplary method of placing a displaycover onto a computing device having a display screen according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Exemplary applications of apparatuses and methods according to thepresent invention are described in this section. These examples arebeing provided solely to add context and aid in the understanding of theinvention. It will thus be apparent to one skilled in the art that thepresent invention may be practiced without some or all of these specificdetails. In other instances, well known process steps have not beendescribed in detail in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring thepresent invention. Other applications are possible, such that thefollowing examples should not be taken as limiting.

In the following detailed description, references are made to theaccompanying drawings, which form a part of the description and in whichare shown, by way of illustration, specific embodiments of the presentinvention. Although these embodiments are described in sufficient detailto enable one skilled in the art to practice the invention, it isunderstood that these examples are not limiting; such that otherembodiments may be used, and changes may be made without departing fromthe spirit and scope of the invention.

The invention relates in various embodiments to a display cover tohousing interface system for a device having a visual display. Varioustypes of displays that can be associated with such an interface systemand associated device can include, for example, various CRT, LCD, orplasma displays, as well as various LED arrangements or any other deviceused to present a visual display to a viewer. Associated devices havingsuch a visual display and interface system can be, for example, atelevision, terminal, monitor or integrated computing device, amongother possibilities that have display screens. One particular example ofan integrated computing device can be an iMac®. personal computer madeby Apple Inc., as well as other similar integrated computing devices.Other possibilities that may utilize such an interface system caninclude various handheld media devices, such as the iPod® and iPhone®personal handheld media devices, also made by Apple Inc.

In various embodiments of the present invention a display cover isplaced proximate to the viewing area of an associated display screen,which again can be any type of display screen used to present a visualdisplay to a viewer. It will be readily appreciated that such a displaycover can be separate from the display screen itself. In fact, suchdisplay covers are often used to provide additional protection anddistance from the securely installed and specially treated glass orother substance that forms a front screen part of the CRT, LCD, plasmadisplay or other display device. It will be readily appreciated thatsuch a display cover may be separated from the display device itself,and that such a display cover may also be referred to as a cover glass,safety panel or other suitable designation. While such a display cover,cover glass or safety panel can typically be comprised of glass, it willbe understood that various types of plastics and/or other suitabletransparent or translucent materials may alternatively be used to formthe display cover or cover glass.

Referring first to FIGS. 1A and 1B an exemplary computing device havingan oversized display screen presentation is illustrated in frontelevation and side elevation views respectively. Computing device 1 canbe, for example, an iMac® personal computer commercially available fromApple, Inc., although it will be readily understood that a wide varietyof computing devices or other items having a display screen might alsohave a similar oversized display screen presentation. Computing device 1can have a display cover 10 fitted on or within an outer housing 20. Ascan be seen, the display screen presentation can be termed “oversized”due to the large amount of display area relative to the overall frontarea of the computing device 1. Display cover 10 is placed proximate toand in front of a display device 30 contained within outer housing 20.It will be appreciated that although display cover 10 and display screen30 are shown as being generally rectangular, various other shapes andsizes for these items may also be used. Outer housing 20 can have afrontally offset bottom portion 21 that borders a bottom of the displaycover 10, as well as a raised frame 22 that surrounds the rest of thedisplay cover. A recessed set back region (not shown) can be formedabove the bottom portion 21 and/or just inside the frame 22 of the outerhousing 20, such that display cover 10 can be readily secured andsupported within the outer housing. In addition, a stand 90 or othersimilar structure can be used to support the entire computing device 1.

As seen in FIGS. 1A and 1B, raised frame 22 of outer housing 20 canessentially form a plurality of thin walls having front distal edges,with the walls being arranged to fully surround and cover any edgeportions of display cover 10. As such, only the front face of thedisplay cover 10 is exposed to the outside of the computing device 1,and the edge portions or side “thickness” of the display cover aregenerally not visible to a user viewing computing device 1 directly fromthe side. Although frame 22 may be relatively thin, as can be seen inFIG. 1A, the overall structure and arrangement of the frame 22, bottomportion 21 and housing 20 in general results in a relatively simple wayof securing and supporting the display cover 10 in a suitable locationfor viewing the display device 30 therethrough. As will be readilyappreciated, outer housing 20 can also contain various additionalcomputer components, such as processors, storage units, speakers,additional displays or indicators, buttons or other input devices, videocards, sound cards, power inlets, various ports, and the like. Theoverall display cover to housing arrangement can be configured to allowthe removal of display cover 10 from the remainder of computing device 1by a user, such as for cleaning the obverse face of the display cover.

Cover to Housing Interface Embodiment I

Turning now to FIGS. 2A and 2B, an exemplary computing device having anoversized display screen presentation utilizing a display screen tohousing interface according to one embodiment of the present inventionis illustrated in front elevation and side elevation views respectively.Computing device 100 can be a desktop computer or associated monitor asshown, although various other devices having the distinctive display tohousing interface disclosed herein may also be used. Similar tocomputing device 1 above, computing device 100 can have a display cover110 disposed with respect to an outer housing 120. Display cover 110 ispreferably placed proximate to and in front of a display device 130 thatis enclosed within outer housing 120. Outer housing 120 can also enclosevarious other computer components, such as a microprocessor (not shown)coupled to the display device 130, as well as one or more memory orstorage units, speakers, additional displays or indicators, buttons orother input devices, video cards, sound cards, power inlets, variousports, and the like. Alternatively, the depicted computing device 100may only comprise a monitor, terminal or other simple display unit, withany associated processors or other computing components being locatedaway from the depicted display device.

Outer housing 120 can have a frontally offset bottom chin portion orregion 121 that borders a bottom side edge of the display cover 110.Chin region 121 can be entirely or substantially monochromatic, and mayhave a logo 123 or other contrasting symbol or display disposedthereupon. In addition, outer housing 120 can also have one or more sidewalls 124 and a top wall 125 that extend backwards from the front faceof computing device 100, as well as a back wall 126. Such a back wall126 may have some amount of curvature to it in various directions, andouter housing 120 may form a single integrated unit comprising chinregion 121, side walls 124, top wall 125 and back wall 126, as will bereadily appreciated. In addition, a stand 190 or other similar structurecan be used to support the entire computing device 100.

The display cover 110 can be relatively thin in nature, and preferablyhas a front face that is exposed to the outside of computing device 100,an obverse face that is placed proximate to display device 130 and isthus inside of the computing device, and a distal edge portion 111between the front and obverse faces and around an outer circumference ofthe display cover. This distal edge or edge portion 111 essentiallyreflects the thickness of the display cover 110 at its outer side orsides, and comprises the actual face of the outer edges. Such athickness of the edge portion at the outer edges can vary, and may evenbecome zero at some locations, such as in the case of a sharp edge tothe cover glass. Although various embodiments are certainly possible, itis specifically contemplated that the thickness of this outer edgeportion remains substantially constant around the full circumference ofthe display cover 110.

Unlike the computing device 1 set forth in FIGS. 1A and 1B above, outerhousing 120 of computing device 100 generally does not have any raisedframe or side walls that surround and support the top or side edges ofdisplay cover 110. As such, the distal edge portion or portions 111 ofthe display cover 110 are visible and fully exposed to the outside ofthe computing device 100, such that a user viewing the computing devicedirectly from the side or top can easily see the respective exposed sideor top distal edge portions of the display cover. The result is adistinctive “apparently floating” display cover appearance for thedisplay arrangement specifically, and the overall computing device ingeneral, that is aesthetically pleasing while remaining fully functionalwith respect to display presentation capabilities.

While this “apparently floating” display cover arrangement may provide adistinguished yet elegant and aesthetically pleasing presentation withrespect to many conventional display screen presentations, such anarrangement still requires adequate support in various pertinentdirections for the display cover. Although gluing, bonding or otherwisepermanently affixing the display cover to various portions of thehousing and/or display apparatus might present a simplistic solution tosuch support issues, a permanent affixing of the display cover canpresent a disadvantageous situation with respect to the display covernot being removable. Having a firmly secured and supported yet readilyremovable display cover is desirable for several reasons. For example,some users may wish to be able to remove the display cover to clean itsobverse face, such as where spills, cigarette smoke or other pollutantsmay have seeped into the device and stained or clouded the back orobverse side of the cover glass. In addition, a user may wish to replaceor service the actual display assembly and/or various other componentsinternal to the outer housing. Access thereto can be greatly enhanced,particularly where the outer housing comprises a singular integratedunit having the opening for the display cover as its only large accessopening. Thus, a removable display cover is preferable.

A variety of apparatuses and techniques can be used to secure andsupport the “apparently floating” display cover 110 to the outer housing120, while still allowing the display cover to be readily removable fromthe housing. Moving next to FIG. 3, the exemplary computing device ofFIG. 2A with its display cover removed is shown in front elevation view.With the display cover removed from computing device 100, the internaldisplay screen 130 and its associated display device chassis or assembly131 are exposed to the outside the device via its front. Chin region 121remains at a set forward position with respect to the remainder of outerhousing 120. The front facing distal edges 127 of side walls 124 and topwall 125 of outer housing 120 are visible from the front of computingdevice 100 with the display cover removed. As will be appreciated,particularly with respect to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the display cover frontsand obscures these front distal edges of side walls 124 and top wall 125when the display cover is installed, such that these edges only becomeexposed when the display cover is removed. In fact, these front distaledges 127 are preferably not even visible when the display cover isinstalled, due to a masking layer disposed on or about the displaycover, as set forth in greater detail below.

Various support components can be used to secure and support the displaycover while it is installed. For example, a plurality of magnets 140 canbe disposed on or about the outer housing 120 and/or display deviceassembly 131, which magnets can be used to attract one or more metallicitems disposed within or on the display cover to hold the display coverin place. As shown in FIG. 3, eight magnets 140 are positioned along atop edge of the display device assembly 131, while three magnets 140 arepositioned along both of the left and right sides of the display deviceassembly. Of course, a different number and/or size of magnets can beplaced in any particular region, as may be desired. It is thought thathaving a greater number of magnets across the top may be desirable, asthis is where it can be advantageous to have a greater attraction forcewith the display cover to prevent the display cover from pivoting alongits bottom axis to fall away from the overall device. Each of thesemagnets 140 is coupled to a display bracket 141, which is in turnconnected to the display device assembly 131. Of course, magnets 140 andtheir supporting brackets 141 could also be connected to any of variousother items within computing device 100, such as the outer housing 120or any other stable component.

Although not shown, such support magnets might also be provided on orabout the top of chin region 121 to correspond to a bottom edge of thedisplay cover, as may be desired. In addition, or alternatively, aseparate stabilizer assembly and associated components can be used tosecure the bottom edge of the display cover. A toothed ledge 150 can beprovided with respect to bottom chin region 121 in order to engage sucha stabilizer assembly, which may be coupled to or integrally formed withthe display cover. Ledge 150 may be integrally formed as a part of chinregion 121 and outer housing 120, or the ledge may be affixed orotherwise firmly coupled to the outer housing such that it does not movewith respect to the housing. For example, ledge 150 may be affixed toand extend upward from the backside of chin region 121, as set forth ingreater detail below. Various gaps 151 can be provided within ledge 150to enable engagement with a stabilizer assembly associated with thedisplay cover when it is installed. As will be readily appreciated,lateral or side-to-side motion of the display cover with respect toouter housing 120 can be restricted when one or more items coupled tothe display cover, such as a stabilizer assembly, are inserted into gaps151 in ledge 150.

Magnets 140 and ledge 150 preferably have components to interact with onthe display cover in order to be effective. FIG. 4A illustrates inpartially cut-away obverse elevation view the obverse face of displaycover 110 removed from the exemplary computing device of FIG. 2A, whileFIG. 4B depicts display cover 110 in side elevation view. Again, displaycover 110 has a distal edge region 111, which can be comprised of twoside distal edges and a top distal edge, as shown. Although displaycover 110 forms a rectangular shape in the illustrated example, it willbe understood that a wide variety of shapes and sizes can be used forthis display cover. As can be seen, one or more metal components 112 canbe coupled to display cover 110 on its obverse side and toward the sideand top edges of the display cover. Such metal components 112 can bearranged to form a “ring” around an outer portion of the display cover110, and are preferably positioned such that when the display cover isinstalled, these metal items will be sufficiently close to the magnetsdisposed on the display device assembly, the outer housing and/orelsewhere on the computing device, with these components being set forthin greater detail above.

Metal components or ring 112 can be made up of one or many pieces of asuitably magnetically engaging metal, such as, for example, steel,although other types of metal may certainly be used. Metal ring 112 canbe affixed or otherwise coupled to the obverse face or backside ofdisplay cover 110, such as by using any suitable glue or other adhesive.As one particular example, a VHB (Very High Bond) acrylic foam tape madeby the 3M Company of St. Paul, Minn. is thought to work well foradhering the one or more metal components 112 to the obverse face ofdisplay cover 110. Other techniques can also be used to couple metalcomponents or ring 112 to display cover 110 in suitable locations, aswill be readily appreciated.

Although the location of metal ring 112 on display cover 110 ispreferably toward the far edges of the display cover, it is preferablethat these metal components be hidden from view as best as possible toprevent a more aesthetically pleasing final appearance. Accordingly,metal components or ring 112 can be set back from the far edges ofdisplay cover 110 an amount sufficient to allow for the wall distaledges of the outer housing to contact the extreme fringe portions ofdisplay cover 110, rather than the metal ring. Under such anarrangement, the side view of the computing device is presented as thedistal edge portions 111 of display cover 110 and then the side wall 124of outer housing 120, with no visible metal component 112 sandwichedtherebetween. To facilitate such an arrangement, a small offset 113 fromthe distal edge 111 of the display cover 110 can be observed withrespect to the placement of the one or more metal components or ring112. Such an offset 113 can be equal to or slightly larger than thethickness of the outer housing side wall 124. A similar offset can beobserved with respect to top wall 125 and any other contact interfacebetween the outer housing and the display cover, as may be desired.

In addition to metal components 112 being disposed toward the edges,display cover 110 may also have a stabilizer assembly 160 coupledthereto. Stabilizer assembly 160 can be formed from any of a number ofmaterials, such as plastic, glass or metal. Although stainless steel isthought to work well due to its favorable material properties,stability, price and ease of manufacture, other more magneticallyinteractive metals might also be used in the event that additionalmagnets (not shown) are also employed to engage such a stabilizerassembly. Similar to that which is done for metal components 112,stabilizer assembly 160 can be affixed to the obverse face of displaycover 110 through any number of suitable means. Again, a VHB tape isthought to work well for this purpose. In order to engage effectivelythe ledge 150 (and its various gaps 151) that is coupled to the outerhousing 120, as set forth above, stabilizer assembly 160 can have anumber of downward descending hooks 161 or other similar components. Aswill be readily appreciated, an effective engagement of hooks 161 withingaps 151 results in restricting any lateral or side-to-side motion ofthe display cover 110 with respect to outer housing 120.

Referring now to FIG. 4B, stabilizer assembly 160 can be effectivelycoupled and positioned to the obverse face of the display cover 110 insuch a manner so as to permit contact from the bottom edge of thedisplay cover or glass to the upper surface of the chin portion of theouter housing. As shown, contact interface 170 between display cover 110and bottom chin region 121 can be a fully flush contact between twofinely machined or formed components, resulting in no discernable gapbetween them. In addition, display cover 110 and bottom chin region 121can be arranged such that their respective faces are coplanar. Therespective couplings and engagements of stabilizer assembly 160 andledge 150 can be with respect to the backsides of both display cover 110and chin region 121. In this manner, ledge 150 and stabilizer assembly160 can be more readily hidden from view during the ordinary use ofdisplay cover 110 and computing device 100.

In order to mask or hide the various components coupled to the displaycover 110, a masking layer 114 may be provided on the display coveritself. Such a masking layer can be a black or otherwise opaque ink thatis printed or otherwise disposed onto the obverse face of the displaycover in the general shape of an outer frame. Of course, other itemsbesides ink may be used for such a masking purpose. Alternativearrangements can include a masking layer that is separate from the coverglass itself, although such arrangements can be inferior or morecumbersome than a simple printed ink layer. Masking layer 114 can beformed on the backside of the display cover 110 such that an opaque bandis formed along some or all edges of the display cover. For example, aone to two inch wide black ink band from the edge inward and disposedaround the entire circumference of obverse face display cover 110 may besuitable to hide or mask all metal ring components 112, magnets 140,stabilizer assembly 160 and any potentially visible portions of displayscreen assembly 131 that are not the actual display screen 130. Ofcourse, other dimensions are also possible, and such an masking layercan be less than one inch or greater than two inches wide, as may bedesired. In addition to hiding or masking any such unattractive items,masking layer 114 can provide an aesthetically pleasing “frame” orviewing portion through which much or all of the display screen isvisible.

Because the new geometries of the outer housing to display coverinterface and their supporting components are so different than theirconventional counterparts, one unfortunate consequence is that the outerhousing directly contacts the display cover in several locations. Inparticular, the front facing distal edges 127 of side walls 124 and topwall 125 of outer housing 120 abut the obverse face of display cover 110around its outer edge. Since preferred embodiments include an outerhousing made out of metal and a display cover made out of glass, thiscan present problems with respect to the housing scratching or damagingthe cover glass. Such problems can be exacerbated where an ink or othermasking layer is printed or otherwise disposed on the obverse face ofthe display cover right where such metal housing to display covercontact is contemplated. As such, one or more additional protectivecomponents may be used to protect the display cover and/or ink ormasking layer disposed thereupon.

As shown in FIG. 4A, a protective layer 115 can be disposed atop theobverse face of display cover 110, and preferably atop masking layer114. Such a protective layer can be printed or otherwise formed on thedisplay cover itself, or can alternatively be a separate layer, sheet orgasket sandwiched between the display cover and outer housing. In someembodiments, protective layer 115 can be a Mylar sheet or gasketdisposed between the inked display cover and outer housing, such thatthe ink and cover glass are protected thereby. Such a protective layer115 can be sized, positioned and otherwise adapted to prevent or reducedamage resulting from the housing contacting the display cover and/orany ink or other masking layer, particularly where the housing is metal.

Continuing next with FIG. 5, the fully assembled exemplary computingdevice of FIG. 2A is shown in partial top cross-sectional view. Again,computing device 100 generally comprises a display cover 110, outerhousing 120 and display screen 130 that is visible through the displaycover, among various other components. Outer housing can include variousportions, such as side wall 124 and back wall 128. Side wall 124 canhave a front facing distal edge 127 that is positioned to contact a rimor end region of display cover 110 in a manner such that a thickness ordistal edge 111 of the display cover is the distal edge that is exposed.As noted above, such an arrangement provides for a distinctive overallappearance in the display presentation that is aesthetically pleasingwhile remaining fully functional.

As noted previously, display screen 130 is part of a display screenassembly or chassis 131, which is stably installed within outer housing120. This display screen assembly 131 can provide support for variousdisplay or supporting brackets 141 that hold or otherwise providesupport for one or more magnets 140. Such magnets 140 provide anattraction force against one or more metal components or metal ring 112that is coupled to display cover 110, such that the display cover isheld in place while installed due at least in part to these magnets andmetal ring. Although actual contact from one or more magnets to thedisplay cover and its respective layers is possible, it will be readilyappreciated that such contact is not necessary for a magnetic pullingforce to be useful. Such a pulling force generally restricts the displaycover from falling outward and away from the computing device, such asabout a pivot axis along the bottom edge of the display cover.

As also noted above, and also shown in FIG. 5 here, an ink or maskinglayer 114 can be disposed on the obverse side of display cover 110,while a Mylar or other protective layer 115 can be positioned betweenthe masking layer and the front distal edge 127 of outer housing 120.Protective layer 115 may also provide protection for the display cover110 and any masking layer 114 in the event that one or more magnets 140actually contact the display cover.

Next, FIG. 6 depicts in partial side cross-sectional view the fullyassembled exemplary computing device provided for illustrative purposesherein. Again, computing device 100 generally comprises a display cover110, outer housing 120 and display screen 130, with outer housing havingvarious portions such as top wall 125 and back wall 128. Similar to theside wall or walls, top wall 125 can also have a front facing distaledge 127 that is positioned to contact a rim or end region of displaycover 110 in a manner such that a thickness or distal edge 111 of thedisplay cover is exposed. Similar display bracket 141 and magnet 140arrangements can be used to support magnets along the top of displayscreen assembly 131, such magnets being positioned to attract theportion of metal ring 112 that is disposed along the top rim portion ofdisplay cover 110. Again, masking layer 114 and protective layer 115 canbe appropriately positioned between the display cover 110 and the frontdistal edge 127 of top outer housing wall 125.

For purposes of detail, FIG. 7A shows one section of the bottom chinregion of the fully assembled computing device in partial sidecross-sectional view, while FIG. 7B shows a different section of thebottom chin region, also in partial side cross-sectional view. As notedabove, bottom chin 121 of outer housing 120 provides substantial supportto the weight of display cover 110, which contacts and rests atop thebottom chin. As such, any downward movement of display cover 110 withrespect to outer housing 120 is restricted by the bottom chin 121. Aprotective layer (not shown) may be used between these two items,although such a protective layer is not thought to be necessary. In anyevent, the appearance of a flush, tight fit with no gap between displaycover 110 and bottom chin 121 is preferred, as is a coplanar arrangementwith the front faces of the display cover and bottom chin. As also shownabove, a masking layer 114 and protective layer 115 can be appropriatelypositioned between the obverse side of display cover 110 and bottomtoothed ledge 150.

Although support from the various bracket, magnet and metal ringarrangements discussed above helps to prevent the display cover fromfalling away from the display screen and housing, components having evenstronger support can be used to prevent relative lateral movementbetween the display cover and outer housing. As such, a toothed ledge150 can be affixed or otherwise coupled to the back of bottom chinregion 121 of the outer housing, and extend upward from the backside ofthe chin. Similarly, an engaging stabilizer assembly 160 can be affixedor otherwise coupled to the obverse side and bottom rim portion of thedisplay cover 110, and may have portions that extend downward therefrom.As in the case of metal ring 112 above, ledge 150 can be attached tochin 121 and stabilizer assembly 160 can be firmly attached to displaycover 110 by using VHB tape. However, it will be readily appreciatedthat any of a variety of adhesives may be used to affix such components.Furthermore, various alternative coupling mechanisms might instead beused, such as where disengaging stabilizer assembly 160 from displaycover 110 or ledge 150 from chin 121 may be desirable.

One or more spring hooks 161 can attach to and descend downward from thestabilizer assembly 160, such that these spring hooks can fit into andengage one or more gaps 151 located in ledge 150. Such an arrangementcan resemble interleaved fingers between the stabilizer assembly andledge, such that lateral motion between the stabilizer and ledge isrestricted. Where these items are then affixed or otherwise firmlycoupled to the display cover and housing respectively, lateral motionbetween these items is similarly restricted. Ledge 150, stabilizerassembly 160 and spring hooks 161 may be comprised of any suitablesturdy material, such as, for example, stainless steel.

Accordingly, display cover 110 is secured in place and supported by acombination of: housing chin to display cover bottom edge contact,magnet to metal ring attraction, and stabilizer to ledge engagement,among other possible forces. Although it is believed that the foregoingelements and interactions are more than sufficient to provide thenecessary security and support for the display cover when it is properlyinstalled, other types of security or support items may also be providedeither in addition to or in place of the foregoing examples.

For example, a series of holes (not shown) can be created in the obverseface of the display cover, such as along the masked outer frame region,and a series of mating pins or posts (not shown) mounted on the displayscreen assembly and/or outer housing can insert into these holes andprovide support for the support cover when the display cover isinstalled. Alternatively, pins or posts can be coupled to the obverseside of the display cover and mating hole components therefor can bestrategically placed about the display screen chassis and/or outerhousing. In addition to providing support, or even in instance wherelittle support is provided, such pin to hole arrangements can also serveas guides or reference points to facilitate a proper placement andlocation of the display cover when it is installed. For example, a smallguide pin hole or bump cavity can be located near the edge of eachcorner of the display cover, with a corresponding small guide pin orbump being mounted about the display screen assembly for each guide pin.

To provide additional perspective, an exemplary computing device with adisplay cover partially installed according to one embodiment of thepresent invention is shown in front perspective view in FIG. 8.Computing device 100, which can be identical or substantially similar tocomputing device 100 in the foregoing figures and description, includesan outer housing 120 having a bottom chin portion 121 and a displayscreen 130 within a display screen assembly 131 that is fully disposedwithin the outer housing. Outer housing 120 has a large opening 129 inits front area above bottom chin portion 121, which large opening issuitable for accepting and supporting a display cover 110. As shown,display cover 110 is partially installed, with its bottom edge restingatop chin portion 121 of housing 120 and its top edge projecting forwardand away from the display screen and computing device 100. Theillustrated position of display cover 110 is that which might typicallybe utilized by a user during the process of removing or installing thedisplay cover.

In addition, the various spring hooks 161 of stabilizer assembly 160,which is attached along the bottom backside of display cover 110, areengaging the teeth and gaps of ledge 150, which is attached along theupper backside of bottom chin region 121. As shown, the engagement ofstabilizer assembly 160 and ledge 150 prevents any lateral orside-to-side motion of the display cover at this point of aninstallation process. As will be readily appreciated, however, displaycover 110 is still free to rotate or pivot about an axis along itsbottom edge, since the interaction of the engaged hooks 161 and gaps 151only prevents motion in a lateral direction, but not in a rotationaldirection for the display cover. Accordingly, the display cover 110 cangenerally rotate about its bottom edge, or an axis relatively closethereto, such that the top of the display cover moves upward toward andeventually contacts the front distal edge 127 of top wall 125. As notedabove, various magnet 140 and metal ring 112 arrangements then serve tosecure and support the display cover 110 in such a position once thedisplay cover is raised up to contact the front edge of top wall 125.

Cover to Housing Interface Embodiment II

Although sufficient details have been provided above with respect to oneparticular way of creating a display cover to outer housing interfacethat results in a display cover having exposed outside edges and a“floating” appearance, it will be readily appreciated that such anappearance can be created using a variety of alternative components andtechniques. Turning next to FIGS. 9A and 9B, an alternative exemplarycomputing device having an oversized display screen presentationutilizing a display screen to housing interface is illustrated in frontelevation and side elevation views respectively according to analternative embodiment of the present invention. Computing device 200can be substantially similar to computing device 100 in the foregoingexamples, with a few notable exceptions. Of course, other differencesmay be implemented too, and not all differences need be changed, as maybe desired for any particular design.

Similar to the foregoing embodiment, computing device 200 has a displaycover 210 and an outer housing 220 that interface to present one or moreexposed edges 211 of the display cover. Rather than have any bottom chinportion for its housing, however, computing device 200 is arranged suchthat all or substantially all of the distal side edge 211 of its displaycover 210 is exposed to the outside of the device. In this particularexample, this means that all four sides—top, left side, right side andbottom—are exposed and to not rest flush against the housing or anyother device surface. Such an arrangement results in a display cover 210that appears to be “completely floating” with respect to outer housing220.

To enable the support of such a fully exposed display cover, additionaland/or more powerful magnets (internal and not shown) may be disposedabout the display screen chassis, outer housing and/or other stabledevice components. In particular, a number of magnets and ring metalcomponents can be disposed along a bottom edge of the obverse sidedisplay cover 210. In addition, a number of support pins or posts(internal and not shown) can be mated with corresponding holes in thedisplay cover, with the number, size and depth of the pins and holesreflecting the amount of device weight and support that is needed. Asone particular possibility, one or more hooks or similar items can bebonded along the outer frame area on the obverse face of display cover210, with such hooks being inserted into appropriate locking holeslocated within the outer housing itself or suitable supported bracketsthat are positioned for such a purpose. When used with an appropriatenumber of magnet and ring metal components as detailed in the aboveexamples, such hook to locking hole arrangements can be particularlyeffective in locking a display cover in place that has all distal edgesexposed and “floating.” In the event that further support or locking isneeded to provide a removable display cover that still has four or allside edges exposed to create a “floating” appearance, one or more screwsor other simple fastening items may also be employed, as will be readilyappreciated.

Cover to Housing Interface Embodiment III

As yet another exemplary embodiment, FIG. 10 illustrates in topperspective view another display screen to housing interface accordingto another alternative embodiment of the present invention. Displaydevice 300 can be substantially similar in many regards to Computingdevices 100 and 200. In particular, display device can have a displaycover 310 and an outer housing 320 that is adapted to interface with andsupport the display cover. Unlike the foregoing embodiments, however,display device 300 presents an arrangement where only portions of theoverall distal side portion 311 of display cover 310 are exposed orvisible to the outside of the device.

For example, the distal side region 316 has an upper portion that isexposed to the outside of the device, but a lower region that isprotected by and encased within a wrap around feature 370 in outerhousing 320. As another example, a relatively small corner bracket 371can be used to secure an otherwise exposed distal edge corner 317 of thedisplay cover 310. As yet another example, a series of thin supportfingers 373 can be disposed at intervals along an otherwise exposed topdistal edge portion 318 of the display cover 310. Such minimallyobtrusive support mechanisms can be used alone or in any combination toresult in a display cover outer distal edge portion or thickness that issubstantially exposed in most but not all locations. Use of one or moreof these particular mechanisms, or similar mechanisms, can allow forsignificant exposure of the distal side edges of the display coverwithout necessarily requiring a significant amount of other supportmechanisms. In addition, such support mechanisms may prove particularlyuseful with respect to handheld personal computing devices or otherdevices that are not able to rely upon a bottom chin portion, as indevice 100 above.

As yet another alternative to the various foregoing embodiments, aglass, plastic or otherwise transparent or translucent bezel or othercomponent may be employed. Such a bezel or other support mechanism canprovide support for a display cover having distal edge portions that arevisible through the transparent bezel or support mechanism. Such anarrangement may provide an additional advantage where it is desired thatthe distal edge thickness of the display cover be visible withoutactually exposing the distal edge. That is, the bezel can support andcover the side distal edge of the display cover, but allow it to be seentherethrough. Where actual exposure of the display cover side distaledge is desired, however, then one or more of the foregoing arrangementsmay be utilized.

Methods of Use

Because the various foregoing display covers are intended to beremovable in many instances, and because various new types of supportitems and interfaces have been introduced herein, it should beappreciated that some ways of installing and removing such displaycovers are preferable. Turning lastly to FIG. 11 a flowchart of oneexemplary method of placing a display cover onto a computing devicehaving a display screen according to one embodiment of the presentinvention is provided. While the provided flowchart may be comprehensivein some respects, it will be readily understood that not every stepprovided is necessary, that other steps can be included, and that theorder of steps might be rearranged as desired by a given devicemanufacturer, vendor or user.

After start step 400, a user can position a bottom edge of a displaycover at process step 402 onto a bottom chin portion of an outer housinghaving a display screen housed therein. The display cover can bepositioned in such a manner that the bottom chin portion provides aprimary support for the display cover and its weight. At subsequentprocess step 404, a stabilizer assembly that is affixed to and along thebottom edge of the display cover can be engaged with one or more matingcomponents coupled to the bottom chin portion of the outer housing. Suchan engagement between these items preferably restricts any relativelateral or side-to-side movement between the display cover and the outerhousing.

At following process step 406, the display cover can be pivoted, rotatedor otherwise moved toward the display screen about an axis of rotationthat is along or about the bottom edge of the display cover. At the nextprocess step 408, the display cover can be released such that an upperportion thereof is supported by one or more secondary supports locatedon the computing device itself. Such secondary supports can be, forexample, one or more magnets that provide an attraction force to one ormore metal components coupled to the rim portions of the display cover,as set forth in greater detail above. As such, releasing step 408 mayinclude a step of permitting a plurality of magnets located on thecomputing device to attract one or more metal items located on thedisplay cover. The final positioning of the display cover after step 408results in a substantial amount of the side thickness or distal edgeportion of the display cover being exposed to the outside of thecomputing device, which provides for a distinctive visual appearance.The method then ends at end step 410.

As suggested above, the disclosed method can include the placement of adisplay cover has a square or rectangular shape, and can result in theside thickness or distal edge region of the display cover being exposedon at least two different sides of the square or rectangle. In someembodiments, such exposure can be had with respect to three or even fourentire sides of the square or rectangle.

Although the foregoing invention has been described in detail by way ofillustration and example for purposes of clarity and understanding, itwill be recognized that the above described invention may be embodied innumerous other specific variations and embodiments without departingfrom the spirit or essential characteristics of the invention. Certainchanges and modifications may be practiced, and it is understood thatthe invention is not to be limited by the foregoing details, but ratheris to be defined by the scope of the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. An electronic device having opposing front andrear faces, an interior and an exterior, wherein the front face has arectangular periphery with four sides, the electronic device comprising:a glass cover layer that has a front surface facing the exterior, anopposing parallel rear surface facing the interior, and an edge surfacethat extends from the front surface to the rear surface, wherein atleast a portion of the edge surface is exposed to the exterior, andwherein the glass cover layer is a continuous sheet of glass; a displaycovered by the glass cover layer; and a housing with first and secondsidewalls that run along first and second sides of the rectangularperiphery, wherein the first sidewall has a first planar surface that isparallel to the rear surface of the glass cover layer, wherein thesecond sidewall has a second planar surface that is parallel to the rearsurface of the glass cover layer, wherein the first and second sidewallshave respective first and second lengths, and wherein the rear surfaceof the glass cover layer is directly coupled to the first and secondplanar surfaces along the entire first and second lengths of the firstand second sidewalls.
 2. The electronic device defined in claim 1,wherein the housing comprises a chin portion that contacts the edgesurface of the glass cover layer.
 3. The electronic device defined inclaim 2, wherein the chin portion is monochromatic.
 4. The electronicdevice defined in claim 2, wherein the housing further comprises a topwall and a curved back wall.
 5. The electronic device defined in claim1, wherein the glass cover layer is affixed to the display using asupport component.
 6. An electronic device having opposing front andrear faces, an interior, and an exterior, wherein the front face has arectangular periphery with four sides, the electronic device comprising:a housing with first and second sidewalls that run along first andsecond sides of the rectangular periphery, wherein the first and secondsidewalls have respective first and second lengths; a display coupled tothe housing; and a glass cover layer that overlaps the display and has afront surface facing the exterior, an opposing parallel rear surfacefacing the interior, and a glass edge surface that extends from thefront surface to the rear surface and runs around the rectangularperiphery, wherein the glass edge surface is completely exposed to theexterior around the entirety of at least three of the four sides of thefront face, wherein the glass edge surface is aligned with therectangular periphery along the at least three sides, wherein the firstsidewall of the housing has a first planar surface that is parallel tothe rear surface of the glass cover layer, wherein the second sidewallof the housing has a second planar surface that is parallel to the rearsurface of the glass cover layer, and wherein the rear surface of theglass cover layer is directly coupled to the first and second planarsurfaces along the entire first and second lengths of the first andsecond sidewalls.
 7. The electronic device defined in claim 6, whereinthe glass edge surface of the glass cover layer is in contact with abottom ledge portion of the housing.
 8. The electronic device defined inclaim 6, wherein the glass cover layer is affixed to the display using asupport component.
 9. The electronic device defined in claim 6, whereinthe housing comprises a chin portion that contacts an edge portion ofthe glass cover layer along one of the four sides of the front face andwherein the glass edge surface is exposed to the exterior around theother three sides of the front face.
 10. The electronic device definedin claim 6, wherein the housing further comprises a top wall and acurved back wall.
 11. The electronic device defined in claim 6, whereinthe rear surface of the glass cover layer is directly coupled to thefirst and second planar surfaces through a protective layer and amasking layer.
 12. An electronic device having opposing front and rearfaces, an interior, and an exterior, wherein the front face has arectangular periphery, the electronic device comprising: a housing; adisplay coupled to the housing; and a transparent cover glass thatoverlaps the display and has a front surface facing the exterior, anopposing parallel rear surface facing the interior, and an edge surfacethat extends from the front surface to the rear surface and runs aroundthe rectangular periphery, wherein the transparent cover glass is acontinuous sheet of glass and wherein the edge surface is completelyexposed to the exterior around the entire rectangular periphery of thefront face.
 13. The electronic device defined in claim 12, wherein thehousing is formed from metal.
 14. The electronic device defined in claim12, wherein the housing is an integrated unit that includes side walls,a top wall, and a back wall.
 15. The electronic device defined in claim14, wherein the back wall has a curved portion.
 16. The electronicdevice defined in claim 14, further comprising a support component thatsecures the transparent cover glass to the housing.
 17. An electronicdevice having opposing front and rear faces, an interior, and anexterior, wherein the front face has a rectangular periphery with foursides, the electronic device comprising: a housing; a display coupled tothe housing; and a glass cover layer that overlaps the display and has afront surface facing the exterior, an opposing parallel rear surfacefacing the interior, and a glass edge surface that extends from thefront surface to the rear surface and runs around the rectangularperiphery, wherein the glass edge surface is exposed to the exterioraround the entirety of all four sides of the front face, and wherein theglass edge surface is aligned with the rectangular periphery along thefour sides.